Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud has unveiled the book ‘Pranab Mukharjee: Rajnitir Vetor Bahir: Prekkhit Bangladesh’ ('Pranab Mukherjee: Ins and Outs of Politics. The Bangladesh Context'), written by senior Indian Journalist and President of Press Club of India Gautam Lahiri.
The unveiling programme took place at the books/covers launching stage of Amar Ekushey Boi Mela at the Suhrawardy Uddyan around 4.30 pm Tuesday.
Foreign minister Hasan Mahmud said, “Pranab Mukherjee's relationship with Bangabandhu's family was very good. He stood by the side of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during the turning and crisis of Bangladesh. During '1/11' he was also by her side, he played a significant role in the establishment of democracy. We, who are the supporters of Awami League, our first identity isBengali then Hindu or Muslim. This is why, our main festival is Pahela Boishakh.”
Talking about the book more specifically, he said, “This is an informative book which contains valuable information about our country’s history. As I mentioned before, Pranab Mukharjee was important in the context of establishing democracy in Bangladesh (after '1/11'). This book will help the reader to know about his deeds and contributions. Those who are interested in politics must read this book.”
Praising author Gautam Lahiri, who was present on the stage with him, Hasan Mahmud said, “The writer of this book Gautam Lahiri just did an excellent piece of work. I think his writings will act as a road map of good relation between Bangladesh and India.”
As Lahiri observed Indian Former president Pranab Mukharjee from very close quarters for a long time, he wrote his views, experiences and observation of Pranab Mukharjee about Bangladesh in this book.
Gautam Lahiri is the first Bengali to hold post of president of the Press Club of India. He has been involved in journalism for four decades and travelled to more than sixty countries of the world as a travel companion of Prime Ministers and Presidents of India. He has visited Bangladesh many times too. He practices journalism in Bengali, English and Hindi languages.
Among others, former governor of Bangladesh Bank, Dr. Atiur Rahman, was present during the unveiling of the book.